Eloping is a way to celebrate your love in the most personal, meaningful way possible! Whether you’re dreaming of saying your vows on a sandy beach, on top of a tall mountain, in a bustling city, or somewhere else entirely, eloping gives you the freedom to make your wedding day completely your own. Don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, I got you! Here’s a guide on how to elope to help you plan a day that’s just as unique as your love story – from picking the perfect vendors to choosing who to bring along.

Choosing Your Dream Elopement Location

When it comes to how to elope, choosing your dream location is one of the most exciting and important steps! I recommend starting by asking yourself if you want a destination elopement or somewhere closer to home. Next, think about the type of scenery that speaks to you. Do you want to tie the knot in the mountains? On a beach? In a forest? In the middle of a field? Or in a city? Also, think about what you want to do on your special day, too. Some locations offer outdoor adventures, like hiking or helicopter rides, while others are perfect for cozy activities, such as cooking breakfast together or playing board games. If you need more ideas for finding your dream location, check out my blogs on destination wedding locations for 2025-2026 couples and the best elopement destinations! 

Deciding on a Guest List

One of the best parts of eloping is that you’re not tied to a big guest list! It can be just the two of you, or you can invite a handful of those who are closest to you. Keep in mind that some locations, like national parks, might have restrictions on group sizes, so it’s important to research and plan accordingly. Also, think about the logistics of travel and accommodations for your guests, especially if you’re choosing a more remote or foreign destination. Another factor is how involved you want your guests to be. Would you like them to participate in your ceremony, or simply be there to celebrate afterward? Overall, your guest list should align with the vision and intimacy you want to create for your special day!

Picking The Right Vendors For Your Elopement

The right vendors can make all the difference when it comes to your elopement! They’ll help you pull everything together and make the day feel effortless. Here are some you might need:

Photographer: As an elopement photographer, I can’t stress enough how important it is to have someone who knows the ins and outs of elopements! A good photographer will help you find the perfect spots for your photos, know how to work with different kinds of lighting, and capture all the little moments that make your day unique. They can even help you with timelines and day-of logistics, too!

Officiant: Depending on where you’re eloping, you might need an officiant to make it legal. Some places even let you self-solemnize, so check out any legalities surrounding this. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to research local laws ahead of time!

Hair and Makeup Artist: A professional hair and makeup artist can help you feel amazing all day long, even if you’re facing wind, humidity, or hiking to your ceremony spot! 

Florist: A bouquet or some small floral touches can add so much to the day! I suggest working with someone who understands your vision and can create something that feels like “you.”

Planner: If you don’t want to worry about all the planning and logistics on your own, I recommend hiring a planner! They can handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying the day.

Choosing the right vendors is such an important part of figuring out how to elope! It’s worth taking the time to find people who feel like a good fit for you and your big day.

How to Elope Legally In Different Locations

Once you’ve found your dream vendors who align with your vision of how to elope, it’s time to dive into the legal requirements. Each location has its own marriage rules, so checking these details early will save you stress later! For example, if you’re planning to tie the knot in a national park, you’ll need to get the right permits first. International elopements need a bit more planning – some countries need extra paperwork or require you to be there for a few days before the ceremony. I suggest reaching out to the local marriage office directly to get the exact details you need. Also, don’t forget to verify what kind of officiant you’ll need, as this can vary by location. Lastly, keep in mind that marriage licenses often have specific timing requirements. So, you might need to get yours a certain number of days before or after your planned date.

Featured in the Blog: Abigail & Noah’s Hawaii Elopement

Abigail and Noah had a beautiful beach elopement in Maui, Hawaii! The golden sunset colors looked gorgeous against the blue waters. Plus, it helped create stunning bridal portraits! I had so much fun walking along the beach and capturing all the love that Abigail and Noah have for each other. I feel so lucky that I got to be their elopement photographer and be a part of this unforgettable experience. Overall, the day was filled with laughter, joy, and lots of romantic moments.

Dress: Abercrombie

Necklace: The Giving Keys

Ready to Elope and Plan Your Dream Day? Let’s Do It!

I hope this guide on how to elope has been helpful! If you’re ready to plan your dream elopement, I’d love to capture your special day! As your elopement photographer, I can help turn your vision into a reality. I want you to have an experience that feels meaningful to you and your partner. Let’s create some beautiful memories that you can look back on for years to come! 

You can learn more about me here. If it sounds like I’d be the perfect photographer for you, then fill out my contact form. I can’t wait to meet you!